Firehosing: the systemic strategy that anti-vaxxers are using to spread misinformation Anti-vaxxers keep telling the same obvious lies without shame, despite being debunked and factchecked
Yet again a popular show is giving an anti-vaxxer a high-profile platform to spread lies and cause harm to an audience of millions. This time it’s Bill Maher who last week hosted Jay Gordon, a controversial doctor who peddles misinformation about vaccines and is best known for providing hundreds of personal belief exemptions for families to forgo school vaccine requirements. The Guardian
Friday, 8 November 2019
GPs told to prioritise toddlers amid flu vaccine shortages
GPs told to prioritise toddlers amid flu vaccine shortages Schools are to cancel flu vaccinations for thousands of young children amid a national shortage of supplies.
GPs have been ordered to prioritise toddlers and the sickest children, amid warnings that quarter of deliveries - for around one million children - will now arrive late.
For the first time, all children aged between two and 11 were due to be eligible for a free nasal spray inoculation, with most receiving them at school. The Daily Telegraph
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GPs have been ordered to prioritise toddlers and the sickest children, amid warnings that quarter of deliveries - for around one million children - will now arrive late.
For the first time, all children aged between two and 11 were due to be eligible for a free nasal spray inoculation, with most receiving them at school. The Daily Telegraph
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Boozy Britons are drinking 108 bottles of wine a year - far more than the rest of the western world
Boozy Britons are drinking 108 bottles of wine a year - far more than the rest of the western world The average Briton is now drinking 108 bottles of wine a year - far more than in the rest of the Western world, a major report shows.
The study of 36 nations shows that the UK’s alcohol consumption is now among the highest in developed countries.
It comes as separate figures show the number of pensioners starting treatment for alcohol problems has doubled in the past decade, The Daily Telegraph
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The study of 36 nations shows that the UK’s alcohol consumption is now among the highest in developed countries.
It comes as separate figures show the number of pensioners starting treatment for alcohol problems has doubled in the past decade, The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- Health at a Glance 2019: Alcohol consumption among adults Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development
- Britons are heavier drinkers than most of the world, report reveals The Daily Mail
Diabetes treatment now costs the NHS £1.1bn, the highest bill ever
Diabetes treatment now costs the NHS £1.1bn, the highest bill ever Prescription medicines for diabetes now cost NHS England more than ever, figures have today revealed.
The £1.075billion forked out last year on drugs for the condition is almost double the £650million bill from a decade ago.
Diabetes is the most expensive condition the NHS has to treat, partly because at least 4.7million people in the UK – approximately one in every 14 – have it.
The costs are spread across insulin, diagnostic devices and blood sugar monitors, antidiabetic drugs and medications to treat people with hypoglycaemia. The Daily Mail
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The £1.075billion forked out last year on drugs for the condition is almost double the £650million bill from a decade ago.
Diabetes is the most expensive condition the NHS has to treat, partly because at least 4.7million people in the UK – approximately one in every 14 – have it.
The costs are spread across insulin, diagnostic devices and blood sugar monitors, antidiabetic drugs and medications to treat people with hypoglycaemia. The Daily Mail
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Doctors say better support is needed for self-harm patients
Doctors say better support is needed for self-harm patients Self-harm patients need to receive better care after they are hospitalised to reduce their risk of suicide, doctors have warned.
Oxford University researchers tracked almost 50,000 self-harm patients in England for up to 15 years.
They found suicide rates were 55 times higher among such patients in the year after being hospitalised, compared to the general population. The Daily Mail
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Oxford University researchers tracked almost 50,000 self-harm patients in England for up to 15 years.
They found suicide rates were 55 times higher among such patients in the year after being hospitalised, compared to the general population. The Daily Mail
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Thursday, 7 November 2019
Doctors warn visitors to keep away from Northants hospitals after rise in people with norovirus bug
Doctors warn visitors to keep away from Northants hospitals after rise in people with norovirus bug With health services across Northamptonshire seeing a higher than usual number of patients with norovirus, doctors are telling loved ones to stay away from hospital for two days after diarrhoea and sickness symptoms have stopped to avoid it spreading. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Improving nurses' work-life balance
Improving nurses' work-life balance A new report highlights ways to improve nurses’ work-life balance by implementing team-based rostering. The report, Improving Nurses’ Work-life Balance, published by flexible working consultancy, Timewise, provides insights from a team-based rostering pilot carried out with 240 nurses, in seven wards in three hospitals.
The pilot aimed to increase nurses’ ownership over their working patterns and work-life balance. Key elements of the approach outlined in the report include empowering the workforce to take responsibility, giving nurses the autonomy and permission to make changes, and liberating talent. In addition to the report, Timewise has also published a detailed ‘how-to’ guide for trusts and ward managers, including free resources on how to implement this approach. NHS Employers
The pilot aimed to increase nurses’ ownership over their working patterns and work-life balance. Key elements of the approach outlined in the report include empowering the workforce to take responsibility, giving nurses the autonomy and permission to make changes, and liberating talent. In addition to the report, Timewise has also published a detailed ‘how-to’ guide for trusts and ward managers, including free resources on how to implement this approach. NHS Employers
Europe’s doctors urge tighter curbs in Chinese medicine
Europe’s doctors urge tighter curbs in Chinese medicine Organisations representing Europe’s leading doctors and scientists are calling for tighter regulations on the availability of traditional Chinese medicines. The Federation of European Academies of Medicine (FEAM) and the European Academies Science Advisory Council (EASAC) have issued a joint statement in which they express concerns at the recent recognition of traditional Chinese medicine in the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) standards framework.
“Just because the World Health Organisation includes a chapter on Traditional Chinese Medicine in its new International Classification of Diseases, it is not automatically safe to use without robust evidence,” says Professor Dan Larhammar, president of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences and chair of the expert group of the FEAM. OnMedica
“Just because the World Health Organisation includes a chapter on Traditional Chinese Medicine in its new International Classification of Diseases, it is not automatically safe to use without robust evidence,” says Professor Dan Larhammar, president of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences and chair of the expert group of the FEAM. OnMedica
Does UK lag behind other rich nations on health and care?
Does UK lag behind other rich nations on health and care? The UK has fewer doctors and nurses and poorer access to elderly long-term care than other rich nations, a study shows. The OECD review also warned that many Brits were living unhealthy lives with high rates of drinking and obesity. But it praised the "strong access" to health care delivered by the NHS, saying there were low levels of inequality compared to other countries.
Spending at 9.8% of GDP - a measure of the size of the economy - was above the 8.8% average for the 36 nations. The review - carried out every two years - looks at the performance and characteristics of the wealthiest nations across all continents. BBC News
Spending at 9.8% of GDP - a measure of the size of the economy - was above the 8.8% average for the 36 nations. The review - carried out every two years - looks at the performance and characteristics of the wealthiest nations across all continents. BBC News
A&E pressure causes 'critical incident' in Nottingham
A&E pressure causes 'critical incident' in Nottingham A hospital trust has declared a "critical incident" because of the "exceptional" pressure on A&E. Nottingham University Hospitals Trust (NUH) runs the Queen's Medical Centre (QMC) and City Hospital and has been on OPEL 4 - previously known as black alert - since Monday morning. On Wednesday it raised the level further.
Some routine operations have been cancelled as the trust prioritises those who need emergency care.
Health bosses do not want to operate on patients who cannot be guaranteed a bed in which to recover. BBC News
Some routine operations have been cancelled as the trust prioritises those who need emergency care.
Health bosses do not want to operate on patients who cannot be guaranteed a bed in which to recover. BBC News
The NHS trusts muscling in on PCNs
The NHS trusts muscling in on PCNs PCNs – the new groupings of GP practices central to the NHS long-term plan – must all choose an organisation to manage funding and employ the substantial additional staff they are due to take on in coming years. They can choose either one of their own member GP practices, a GP federation or “voluntary sector organisation”, or an NHS trust or foundation trust.
HSJ analysis has discovered that four NHS provider trusts which are directly or obliquely filling this role – often known as their “banker” but officially referred to as the “nominated payee”.
These four trusts – Humber, Yeovil District Hospital, Southern Health and Royal Wolverhampton – already run, or jointly run, general practice services in their area, under existing arrangements. The payee receives funds from NHS England and local commissioners on behalf of the network, dispersing the money to pay practices for participating, providing services, and for salaries of network workforce. It is also envisaged that they will often employ the staff. Health Service Journal
HSJ analysis has discovered that four NHS provider trusts which are directly or obliquely filling this role – often known as their “banker” but officially referred to as the “nominated payee”.
These four trusts – Humber, Yeovil District Hospital, Southern Health and Royal Wolverhampton – already run, or jointly run, general practice services in their area, under existing arrangements. The payee receives funds from NHS England and local commissioners on behalf of the network, dispersing the money to pay practices for participating, providing services, and for salaries of network workforce. It is also envisaged that they will often employ the staff. Health Service Journal
BMA demands action to avert crisis as NHS heads for worst winter on record
BMA demands action to avert crisis as NHS heads for worst winter on record The BMA manifesto published ahead of the 12 December general election calls for a 4% increase in overall NHS spending, alongside legislation to stop the pension tax crisis, better staffing and pay and a second Brexit referendum.
In a report on NHS winter pressure published alongside its 'Manifesto for Health', the BMA warns that 'trusts and GP practices are almost certain to endure the most pressurised winter on record'. Pressures faced by the NHS over the summer were worse than even the worst-case scenarios forecast by the BMA, the association said. GP Online
In a report on NHS winter pressure published alongside its 'Manifesto for Health', the BMA warns that 'trusts and GP practices are almost certain to endure the most pressurised winter on record'. Pressures faced by the NHS over the summer were worse than even the worst-case scenarios forecast by the BMA, the association said. GP Online
Under-18s being denied urgent mental health treatment, say GPs
Under-18s being denied urgent mental health treatment, say GPs Troubled teenagers seeking urgent help from NHS mental health services are being denied treatment or facing months of delays, GPs have said.
Three in four family doctors do not believe under-18s they refer to child and adolescent mental health services will end up being treated, research shows.
In a survey of 1,008 GPs across the UK, 76% said they did not usually feel confident a young person they referred to CAMHS would receive treatment for their illness. Only 10% were confident that treatment would follow. The Guardian
Three in four family doctors do not believe under-18s they refer to child and adolescent mental health services will end up being treated, research shows.
In a survey of 1,008 GPs across the UK, 76% said they did not usually feel confident a young person they referred to CAMHS would receive treatment for their illness. Only 10% were confident that treatment would follow. The Guardian
NHS workers must say no when patients ask for a white doctor, Matt Hancock says
NHS workers must say no when patients ask for a white doctor, Matt Hancock says NHS workers must say no when patients ask for a white doctor, Matt Hancock has said, as he vows to support staff against racism. In a letter sent to all staff in the health service, he said he was “horrified” by the amount of abuse being heaped on staff, and by “appalling” racially motivated incidents.
Last week a senior surgeon who has worked in the NHS for more than 20 years told how a patient had asked him “can I have a white doctor?” Dr Radhakrishna Shanbhag said he had been left to feel “worthless” as a result of the way he was treated by patients. In a letter sent to all NHS staff yesterday the Health Secretary said the Government and management of the NHS would back up any workers who took a “zero-tolerance” approach to racism. The Telegraph
Last week a senior surgeon who has worked in the NHS for more than 20 years told how a patient had asked him “can I have a white doctor?” Dr Radhakrishna Shanbhag said he had been left to feel “worthless” as a result of the way he was treated by patients. In a letter sent to all NHS staff yesterday the Health Secretary said the Government and management of the NHS would back up any workers who took a “zero-tolerance” approach to racism. The Telegraph
DIY cervical checks boost uptake by 50 per cent among those who otherwise miss tests
DIY cervical checks boost uptake by 50 per cent among those who otherwise miss tests DIY cervical screening kits boost uptake by more than 50 per cent, among those who otherwise fail to have the checks, trials show. Research on almost 20,000 patients who had not been screened for the disease for at least three years found that they were far more likely to do so if they could do the tests at home.
The US trial, which involved self-sampling kits sent by post, follows a “gamechanging” British study.
This found that home urine tests for cervical cancer were more accurate than smear tests, as well as more popular among women. Take-up of cervical screening in the UK is the lowest for 21 years, with almost one in three women failing to respond to invitations. Experts fear embarrassment and a dislike of intrusive checks is deterring many women from undergoing checks at their GP surgeries. The Telegraph
The US trial, which involved self-sampling kits sent by post, follows a “gamechanging” British study.
This found that home urine tests for cervical cancer were more accurate than smear tests, as well as more popular among women. Take-up of cervical screening in the UK is the lowest for 21 years, with almost one in three women failing to respond to invitations. Experts fear embarrassment and a dislike of intrusive checks is deterring many women from undergoing checks at their GP surgeries. The Telegraph
Wednesday, 6 November 2019
Serial whistleblower unfairly sacked
Serial whistleblower unfairly sacked A large mental health provider unfairly dismissed a nurse with a record of whistleblowing because it feared he was seeking to highlight care failures, a tribunal has ruled.
A judge decided Noel Finn was wrongly dismissed by St Andrew’s Healthcare, largely because of his roles in exposing scandals at the Yarl’s Wood detention centre and in the government’s Personal Independence Payments assessment centre.
The tribunal’s judgement, released last week, showed the charity was worried Mr Finn was going to investigate their organisation, and forced him out in 2017. Health Service Journal
A judge decided Noel Finn was wrongly dismissed by St Andrew’s Healthcare, largely because of his roles in exposing scandals at the Yarl’s Wood detention centre and in the government’s Personal Independence Payments assessment centre.
The tribunal’s judgement, released last week, showed the charity was worried Mr Finn was going to investigate their organisation, and forced him out in 2017. Health Service Journal
Hundreds more psychiatric beds needed to help end practice of sending patients hundreds of miles for treatment
Hundreds more psychiatric beds needed to help end practice of sending patients hundreds of miles for treatment HUNDREDS more NHS mental health beds are needed urgently in England to help end the “shameful” practice of sending severely ill patients far from home for treatment, says the Royal College of Psychiatrists.
The practice, known as out-of-area placements (OAPs), happens when there isn’t a local hospital bed for the patient to be admitted to. Allowances are made where this is for highly specialist care.
The Government has pledged to end all inappropriate adult OAPs for acutely ill patients by 2021 but despite intensive efforts progress on reducing that number has stalled. On July 31, 745 people were being treated inappropriately out of area, official figures show.
The impact on patients and their loved ones can be devastating, causing huge emotional damage and even setting back those patients’ recovery. It can also be challenging for staff. Royal College of Psychiatrists
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The practice, known as out-of-area placements (OAPs), happens when there isn’t a local hospital bed for the patient to be admitted to. Allowances are made where this is for highly specialist care.
The Government has pledged to end all inappropriate adult OAPs for acutely ill patients by 2021 but despite intensive efforts progress on reducing that number has stalled. On July 31, 745 people were being treated inappropriately out of area, official figures show.
The impact on patients and their loved ones can be devastating, causing huge emotional damage and even setting back those patients’ recovery. It can also be challenging for staff. Royal College of Psychiatrists
See also:
- Service capacity in England Royal College of Psychiatrists
- Exploring Mental Health Inpatient Capacity The Strategy Unit
- Mental-health beds shortage 'causing distress' BBC News
- Hundreds of mental health beds needed to end 'shameful' out-of-area care The Guardian
- Mental health patients still being sent hundreds of miles from home for hospital beds The Independent
New NHS online training to help people get home from hospital quicker
New NHS online training to help people get home from hospital quicker NHS England and Health Education England have today launched ActNow, an e-learning tool developed for health service and care staff to help them reduce hospital delays for patients. Nearly 350,000 patients currently spend over three weeks in acute hospitals each year.
Transforming imaging services in England: a national strategy for imaging networks
Transforming imaging services in England: a national strategy for imaging networks This strategy sets out a proposal for implementing collaborative imaging networks on a national basis across England. This approach will deliver better quality care and better value services for patients and provide hardworking NHS staff opportunities to develop their career and increase their productivity. NHS England and NHS Improvement
Ear, nose and throat surgery: GIRFT programme national specialty report
Ear, nose and throat surgery: GIRFT programme national specialty report The GIRFT review of ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgery services visited 126 units across the country and found that thousands more people could be treated on a day case basis rather than having an overnight stay in hospital. Through a series of recommendations and by sharing the good practice of units with higher-than-average day case rates, the GIRFT report aims to: ensure more patients are treated without the worry or inconvenience of a stay in hospital; make ENT departments more resilient to pressures on beds; and allow trusts to free up beds for use by other specialties. Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT)
NHS Property Services set up to fail
NHS Property Services set up to fail NHS Property Services Limited has made progress in tackling some of the issues that it inherited when it was set up. However, it has struggled to get its tenants to sign rental agreements for the properties they occupy, and it is unacceptable that 70% of its tenants still do not have rental agreements in place. Without these agreements, it is very difficult to run an effective property management company and provide value for the NHS and taxpayers from the £3.8 billion estate that it was set up to manage. The lack of rental agreements has led to many bills being disputed, outstanding debt has almost tripled, to £576 million in March 2019, and £110 million of debt has been written off in the last five years. Public Accounts Select Committee
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Hospitals in court for £1.5bn rate rebate claim
Hospitals in court for £1.5bn rate rebate claim NHS trusts should be treated as charities and get a £1.5bn business rate refund, a court has heard.
Derby Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is leading 16 other trusts against 45 local authorities, including Derby City Council.
The High Court heard trusts should qualify as they worked with hospitals "plainly for the public benefit".
But barristers for the authorities said no such claims had been made before and any refund would hit public finances. BBC News
Derby Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is leading 16 other trusts against 45 local authorities, including Derby City Council.
The High Court heard trusts should qualify as they worked with hospitals "plainly for the public benefit".
But barristers for the authorities said no such claims had been made before and any refund would hit public finances. BBC News
Daily exercise can 'neutralise' the risk of depression even those with a high genetic risk of the condition
Daily exercise can 'neutralise' the risk of depression even those with a high genetic risk of the condition Around half an hour of exercise a day can “neutralise” the risk of developing depression, even in those with a family history of the condition, research suggests.
Scientists said the Harvard study - the first of its kind - shows “genes are not destiny”.
On average, every 35 minutes spent on activities such as yoga and dance classes, or using a treadmill, rowing machine or cross-trainer appeared to lower the risk of depression by 17 per cent, the research found. The Daily Telegraph
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Scientists said the Harvard study - the first of its kind - shows “genes are not destiny”.
On average, every 35 minutes spent on activities such as yoga and dance classes, or using a treadmill, rowing machine or cross-trainer appeared to lower the risk of depression by 17 per cent, the research found. The Daily Telegraph
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- Physical activity offsets genetic risk for incident depression assessed via electronic health records in a biobank cohort study (abstract) Depression and Anxiety
- Exercising more significantly reduces the odds of depression The Daily Mail
DNA test could save lives of thousands of children by identifying inherited diseases in babies
DNA test could save lives of thousands of children by identifying inherited diseases in babies Thousands of young lives could be saved by a DNA test unveiled by scientists yesterday.
The screening process checks for inherited diseases in babies.
It allows doctors to start early treatment on a range of conditions from epilepsy to cystic fibrosis. Lethal diseases could be stopped in their tracks. The Daily Mail
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The screening process checks for inherited diseases in babies.
It allows doctors to start early treatment on a range of conditions from epilepsy to cystic fibrosis. Lethal diseases could be stopped in their tracks. The Daily Mail
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Government bans UK drug companies from selling MMR vaccine to other countries
Government bans UK drug companies from selling MMR vaccine to other countries The Government has banned pharmaceutical companies in the UK from selling the measles vaccine to other countries.
This move makes MMR – a vaccine which protects against measles, mumps and rubella – the latest to have been added to a 'no export' list.
It comes after a list of another 27 medications were banned in October from being parallel exported by firms in the UK. The Daily Mail
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This move makes MMR – a vaccine which protects against measles, mumps and rubella – the latest to have been added to a 'no export' list.
It comes after a list of another 27 medications were banned in October from being parallel exported by firms in the UK. The Daily Mail
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- Guidance: Medicines that cannot be parallel exported from the UK Department of Health and Social Care
Tuesday, 5 November 2019
Northamptonshire Council plans £4m children's service cut
Northamptonshire Council plans £4m children's service cut A council has proposed a £4m cut to its children's services that was described as "failing" by Ofsted.
The move is part of £23.2m of savings made by Northamptonshire County Council in its draft budget for 2020-21.
It will be the last budget before the council, along with district and borough councils, will be replaced by two unitary authorities in April 2021. BBC Northampton
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The move is part of £23.2m of savings made by Northamptonshire County Council in its draft budget for 2020-21.
It will be the last budget before the council, along with district and borough councils, will be replaced by two unitary authorities in April 2021. BBC Northampton
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- Commissioners tell government sorting out Northants Children's Services finances will be the 'hardest nut to crack' Northampton Chronicle and Echo
’We’re here and you’re there’: lived experiences of ethnic minority staff in the NHS
’We’re here and you’re there’: lived experiences of ethnic minority staff in the NHS Earlier this year, I wrote about our research focusing on race inequalities in the NHS workforce. As part of the work, we asked people from an ethnic minority background who work in the NHS to share their lived experiences. As a woman of colour in the minority at work, I find race an uncomfortable topic to talk about; I’m cautious about talking openly in case I am judged for it. So I was taken aback by how many people got in touch from various minority ethnic backgrounds, working across health care. I prepared myself to hear about some ugly stories of prejudice and racism. The King's Fund
All inpatients with learning disability or autism to be given case reviews
All inpatients with learning disability or autism to be given case reviews All 2,250 patients with learning disabilities and autism who are inpatients in a mental health hospital will have their care reviewed over the next 12 months, the Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock has announced today.
As part of the review, the government will commit to providing each patient with a date for discharge, or where this is not appropriate, a clear explanation of why and a plan to move them closer towards being ready for discharge into the community. Department of Health and Social Care
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As part of the review, the government will commit to providing each patient with a date for discharge, or where this is not appropriate, a clear explanation of why and a plan to move them closer towards being ready for discharge into the community. Department of Health and Social Care
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Securing cyber resilience in health and care: progress update 2019
Securing cyber resilience in health and care: progress update 2019 This update is the third in a series of progress reports published by the DHSC since the May 2017 WannaCry cyber attack. The report highlights the actions taken by the department and our delivery partners to build cyber resilience in health and care. It describes our progress over the past 12 months and looks forward to 2020. Department of Health and Social Care
A guide to managing medicines supply and shortages
A guide to managing medicines supply and shortages This guide aims to support pharmacists, clinicians and other NHS professionals with managing the supply of medicines to their patients and details the national, regional and local management and escalation processes and communication routes for medicines supply issues in order to consolidate existing practice across industry, government and the NHS. NHS England
Ten charts on why the NHS matters in this election
Ten charts on why the NHS matters in this election The NHS is a key battleground in the general election.
Whether it is extra money, tackling growing waiting lists or recruiting staff, politicians are keen to be seen championing the NHS.
But what shape is the NHS actually in? BBC News
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Whether it is extra money, tackling growing waiting lists or recruiting staff, politicians are keen to be seen championing the NHS.
But what shape is the NHS actually in? BBC News
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Cervical screening: DIY alternative to smear test 'promising'
Cervical screening: DIY alternative to smear test 'promising' A DIY home urine or swab test could potentially help more women discover whether they are at risk of cervical cancer, researchers say.
The new method could be used as an alternative to the smear test and would not require a visit to the doctor.
Scientists at Queen Mary University of London asked 600 women to provide self-collected samples for screening.
Although larger trials are needed, the work has been called "promising" and a potential "game-changer" by charities. BBC News
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The new method could be used as an alternative to the smear test and would not require a visit to the doctor.
Scientists at Queen Mary University of London asked 600 women to provide self-collected samples for screening.
Although larger trials are needed, the work has been called "promising" and a potential "game-changer" by charities. BBC News
See also:
- DIY urine and swab tests could 'replace smear tests' The Daily Mail
- Home urine tests for cervical cancer could replace smears, study suggests The Daily Telegraph
- Smear tests for cervical cancer could be replaced by DIY home sample kit The Independent
Teen self-harm rates are dramatically down in Denmark – here’s why
Teen self-harm rates are dramatically down in Denmark – here’s why Concern has been growing over rising rates of self-harm in teenagers. In the UK and Ireland, increases began around the time of the 2008 economic crash and show no sign of slowing. One study of the UK found rates among teenage girls rose by two-thirds between 2011 and 2014.
But some surprising new findings suggest that stress caused by recession and financial uncertainty does not necessarily lead to rises in suicidal behaviour. My colleagues and I examined rates of teenagers treated in hospital for self-harm in Denmark. Contrary to expectations, we found that rates of self-harm in Danish teenagers actually fell between 2008 and 2016. Although Denmark experienced an economic recession, why didn’t rates of self-harm among teenagers see a similar spike as in other countries? The Independent
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But some surprising new findings suggest that stress caused by recession and financial uncertainty does not necessarily lead to rises in suicidal behaviour. My colleagues and I examined rates of teenagers treated in hospital for self-harm in Denmark. Contrary to expectations, we found that rates of self-harm in Danish teenagers actually fell between 2008 and 2016. Although Denmark experienced an economic recession, why didn’t rates of self-harm among teenagers see a similar spike as in other countries? The Independent
See also:
- Temporal trends in incidence of hospital-treated self-harm among adolescents in Denmark: national register-based study (open access) Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology
Treasury tax rules force NHS patients to wait longer
Treasury tax rules force NHS patients to wait longer Hundreds of appointments and crucial patient scans have been delayed because punitive tax rules are forcing NHS doctors to work less hours, a new survey has revealed.
The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AoMRC), an umbrella organisation for 24 separate medical colleges in the UK and Ireland, has now written to the chancellor Sajid Javid and health secretary Matt Hancock, urging them to take action. The Independent
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The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AoMRC), an umbrella organisation for 24 separate medical colleges in the UK and Ireland, has now written to the chancellor Sajid Javid and health secretary Matt Hancock, urging them to take action. The Independent
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- Academy letter to the treasurer - Impact of NHS pension taxation on service provision Academy of Medical Royal Colleges
- NHS 'tax trap' pensions led to 18-week closure of intensive care unit The Guardian
Poorest hit hardest by cuts to public health spending – research
Poorest hit hardest by cuts to public health spending – research Most deprived parts of England have lost six times as much funding as prosperous areas
England’s poorest communities have borne the brunt of almost £900m of cuts to public health spending, despite them having higher rates of disease, research has revealed.
Places with high levels of deprivation such as Liverpool, Blackpool and Birmingham have lost much more of their budgets to prevent problems such obesity and smoking than better-off areas. The Guardian
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England’s poorest communities have borne the brunt of almost £900m of cuts to public health spending, despite them having higher rates of disease, research has revealed.
Places with high levels of deprivation such as Liverpool, Blackpool and Birmingham have lost much more of their budgets to prevent problems such obesity and smoking than better-off areas. The Guardian
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The NHS needs more than just cash. It needs major reform too
The NHS needs more than just cash. It needs major reform too | Simon Jenkins An NHS boss says just show them the money, don’t ‘politicise’ the health service this election. But its problems run deeper
Don’t politicise the NHS say the health professionals. Let us get on with the job. The health service providers’ chief executive, Chris Hopson, pleads for the health service not to be “weaponised” or “demonised” in the election. Just give it more money.
The NHS has been political since the day it was born. Politics has served it well, making it ever vaster and ever more resistant to change. More than any country in Europe, it has maintained its archaic professional structures and its iconic free status “at the point of delivery” (except for drugs), because its leaders know well that “point of delivery” is code for votes. The Guardian
Don’t politicise the NHS say the health professionals. Let us get on with the job. The health service providers’ chief executive, Chris Hopson, pleads for the health service not to be “weaponised” or “demonised” in the election. Just give it more money.
The NHS has been political since the day it was born. Politics has served it well, making it ever vaster and ever more resistant to change. More than any country in Europe, it has maintained its archaic professional structures and its iconic free status “at the point of delivery” (except for drugs), because its leaders know well that “point of delivery” is code for votes. The Guardian
Donors will be able to follow the route their blood takes using Google Maps
Donors will be able to follow the route their blood takes using Google Maps Donors will be able to track the journey their blood takes through Google Maps in a bid to encourage more people to donate.
Roadmaps will be emailed to all donors showing which NHS hospital gets their blood and where it is processed.
NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) is hoping to attract more donors and retain those with in-demand blood types, such as O negative and Ro.
The initiative will be rolled out this week for donors in England and Wales. The Daily Mail
Roadmaps will be emailed to all donors showing which NHS hospital gets their blood and where it is processed.
NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) is hoping to attract more donors and retain those with in-demand blood types, such as O negative and Ro.
The initiative will be rolled out this week for donors in England and Wales. The Daily Mail
Patients across Europe are waiting months for life-saving drugs due to shortage
Patients across Europe are waiting months for life-saving drugs due to shortage Patients across Europe are being forced to wait months for life-saving medications due to bottlenecks in deliveries from Asia.
Health chiefs have warned lives are at risk, with pharmacies running out of vaccines for children, insulin for diabetics and heart disease treatments.
Chemists are also unable to access antibiotics, painkillers, the morning after pill and other basic drugs due to the hold up in Asia. The Daily Mail
Health chiefs have warned lives are at risk, with pharmacies running out of vaccines for children, insulin for diabetics and heart disease treatments.
Chemists are also unable to access antibiotics, painkillers, the morning after pill and other basic drugs due to the hold up in Asia. The Daily Mail
Monday, 4 November 2019
UK flu epidemic: US deaths prompt expert warning about virus
UK flu epidemic: US deaths prompt expert warning about virus A life-threatening flu epidemic could hit the UK this winter, experts have warned.
Health officials confirmed two cases in the US where flu has caused deaths, including a four year old boy in California who died last month, and another child of the same age who died in New York this week.
It has been warned that these cases could indicate a severe outbreak of the virus, which is usually common between October and March. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Health officials confirmed two cases in the US where flu has caused deaths, including a four year old boy in California who died last month, and another child of the same age who died in New York this week.
It has been warned that these cases could indicate a severe outbreak of the virus, which is usually common between October and March. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Don't weaponise the NHS
Don't weaponise the NHS The NHS is always a hot topic for political debate. People care about it, passionately. Our health service, for all its challenges, continues to command overwhelming public support – the polls show it’s what makes us most proud to be British. It’s understandable that, come election time, politicians will look to harness that popularity, inevitably casting themselves as champions and defenders of the NHS.
This political potency is often helpful for the NHS. But it becomes counter-productive when the NHS is used as a political weapon. Frontline NHS leaders are worried that is already starting to happen in this election. NHS Providers
See also:
This political potency is often helpful for the NHS. But it becomes counter-productive when the NHS is used as a political weapon. Frontline NHS leaders are worried that is already starting to happen in this election. NHS Providers
See also:
- Not just the NHS: manifestos need to consider other health and care priorities too King's Fund
- General Election 2019: Don't politicise health service - NHS boss BBC News
- General election 2019: Could the NHS be "up for sale"? BBC News
- General election 2019: NHS claims fact-checked BBC News
- Stop weaponising the NHS! Health service chiefs condemn Jeremy Corbyn and Boris Johnson and warn them against making 'undeliverable promises' to win votes at the election The Daily Mail
- NHS trusts call on parties to avoid 'cheap political slogans' The Guardian
- ‘Don’t use NHS as a political football’, doctors tell MPs ahead of election Metro
Demand for NHS burns care soars over bonfire night and diwali
Demand for NHS burns care soars over bonfire night and diwali Top doctors from the NHS and St John Ambulance have teamed up to urge revellers to stay safe during Guy Fawkes Night and Diwali celebrations, as new figures reveal thousands end up in hospital each year due to firework and bonfire injuries. NHS England
Heart failure hospital admissions rise by a third in five years
Heart failure hospital admissions rise by a third in five years The number of people being admitted to hospital due to heart failure has risen by a third in the last five years, according to a new analysis by the British Heart Foundation (BHF).
Heart failure admissions have reached record levels in England, rising from 65,025 in 2013/14 to 86,474 in 2018/19 - a 33 per cent increase. This is three times as fast as all other hospital admissions, which have risen by 11 per cent in the same period.
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Heart failure admissions have reached record levels in England, rising from 65,025 in 2013/14 to 86,474 in 2018/19 - a 33 per cent increase. This is three times as fast as all other hospital admissions, which have risen by 11 per cent in the same period.
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Allergies: Teenagers needing hospital treatment up 65% in five years
Allergies: Teenagers needing hospital treatment up 65% in five years The number of children who received hospital treatment for allergies has increased by 65% across England in the past five years, figures have revealed.
In 2013-14, 2,873 teenagers sought treatment whereas in 2017-18 it was 4,743, data from NHS Digital shows.
Allergy UK said this could be because this was the age when sufferers started taking responsibility for themselves. BBC News
In 2013-14, 2,873 teenagers sought treatment whereas in 2017-18 it was 4,743, data from NHS Digital shows.
Allergy UK said this could be because this was the age when sufferers started taking responsibility for themselves. BBC News
Tens of thousands of operations cancelled because of staff shortages and faulty equipment, NHS figures show
Tens of thousands of operations cancelled because of staff shortages and faulty equipment, NHS figures show Tens of thousands of people have have had their operations cancelled because of staff shortages and faulty medical equipment, according to newly revealed NHS figures.
The number of procedures called off by hospitals for non-clinical reasons has increased by 32 per cent in the last two years, the statistics obtained via a freedom of information (FOI) request. Almost 4,000 more were scrapped in 2018 than in 2016.
They also show that of the 79,000 operations to be cancelled last year, 20 per cent were scrapped because of staffing issues and equipment failures. The Independent
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The number of procedures called off by hospitals for non-clinical reasons has increased by 32 per cent in the last two years, the statistics obtained via a freedom of information (FOI) request. Almost 4,000 more were scrapped in 2018 than in 2016.
They also show that of the 79,000 operations to be cancelled last year, 20 per cent were scrapped because of staffing issues and equipment failures. The Independent
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Home Office decried for blocking NHS scheme to use more trainee doctors from overseas
Home Office decried for blocking NHS scheme to use more trainee doctors from overseas Expansion of initiative to tackle staff shortages is part of health service’s long-term plan
The Home Office is blocking plans already agreed by the health secretary and NHS bosses to let more overseas doctors come to Britain to help tackle the health service’s staff shortages.
It has refused to allow the planned expansion of the medical training initiative (MTI) to go ahead, despite its inclusion in the government-backed NHS long-term plan. The Guardian
The Home Office is blocking plans already agreed by the health secretary and NHS bosses to let more overseas doctors come to Britain to help tackle the health service’s staff shortages.
It has refused to allow the planned expansion of the medical training initiative (MTI) to go ahead, despite its inclusion in the government-backed NHS long-term plan. The Guardian
Report reveals severe lack of services for UK opioid painkiller addicts
Report reveals severe lack of services for UK opioid painkiller addicts Just two free services specifically deal with opioid painkiller addiction in the UK, according to a report seen by the Guardian, prompting experts to warn that there could be a “hidden epidemic” of sufferers.
Clinicians worry that those experiencing an addiction to opioids prescribed by GPs feel uncomfortable at traditional drug misuse treatment centres, causing them to not seek help.
The shortage was disclosed in a recent Public Health England report on prescription drug dependence, but has been unreported until now. Other experts consulted by the Guardian said they were unaware of any other such service.
Clinicians worry that those experiencing an addiction to opioids prescribed by GPs feel uncomfortable at traditional drug misuse treatment centres, causing them to not seek help.
The shortage was disclosed in a recent Public Health England report on prescription drug dependence, but has been unreported until now. Other experts consulted by the Guardian said they were unaware of any other such service.
People may be living longer - but they face up to 13 years of living in poor health, charity warns
People may be living longer - but they face up to 13 years of living in poor health, charity warns People may be living longer - but they face up to 13 years of living in poor health, an elderly care charity has warned.
Last month the Office for National Statistics (ONS) released data which predicted that the number of over 85s in the UK was set to double in 25 years amid fears of an escalating social care crisis.
Now an analysis of ONS local authority data by the charity, Independent Age, shows that although people are living longer, the ageing population are spending longer in ill health. The Daily Telegraph
Last month the Office for National Statistics (ONS) released data which predicted that the number of over 85s in the UK was set to double in 25 years amid fears of an escalating social care crisis.
Now an analysis of ONS local authority data by the charity, Independent Age, shows that although people are living longer, the ageing population are spending longer in ill health. The Daily Telegraph
Thousands of cancer patients miss out on NHS help for fatigue because of lack of funding
Thousands of cancer patients miss out on NHS help for fatigue because of lack of funding Tens of thousands of patients with incurable cancer are missing out on NHS support, a charity has warned.
Macmillan Cancer Support says 136,000 sufferers may live with the disease for several years thanks to advances in treatment, but struggle to plan for the future.
It said 77 per cent of them – more than 100,000 – are ‘not getting the support they need’ for problems such as pain, fatigue or trouble sleeping due to a lack of NHS staff and resources. The Daily Mail
Macmillan Cancer Support says 136,000 sufferers may live with the disease for several years thanks to advances in treatment, but struggle to plan for the future.
It said 77 per cent of them – more than 100,000 – are ‘not getting the support they need’ for problems such as pain, fatigue or trouble sleeping due to a lack of NHS staff and resources. The Daily Mail
NHS to trial Group B Strep infection screening in pregnant women in a bid to protect newborns
NHS to trial Group B Strep infection screening in pregnant women in a bid to protect newborns The NHS will conduct a major trial into Group B Strep screening in pregnant women in a bid to protect newborns from deadly illnesses.
The £2.8million study will compare what is considered the 'gold standard' ECM test, as well as the 'bedside test', with current standards of care.
If rolled out in NHS hospitals, the tests could prevent Group B Strep (GBS) infection in around 350 babies every year. The Daily Mail
The £2.8million study will compare what is considered the 'gold standard' ECM test, as well as the 'bedside test', with current standards of care.
If rolled out in NHS hospitals, the tests could prevent Group B Strep (GBS) infection in around 350 babies every year. The Daily Mail
Friday, 1 November 2019
How are the political promises for health and social care stacking up?
How are the political promises for health and social care stacking up? Clearly Brexit will be centre stage in the election campaign. But given surveys show public concerns about the NHS come a constant second to Brexit what have the parties pledged so far on health and care? How do they stack up? The Health Foundation
Local lessons: what can we learn from Tameside and Glossop?
Local lessons: what can we learn from Tameside and Glossop? Nigel Edwards reflects on a visit to Tameside and Glossop CCG, which has recently improved its performance in a number of areas. He argues that three things in particular struck him about how they do things – and that we should be wary of thinking such models can be simply copied elsewhere. Nuffield Trust
Human rights of many people with a learning disability and/or autism are being breached in mental health hospitals
Human rights of many people with a learning disability and/or autism are being breached in mental health hospitals Parliament’s Joint Committee on Human Rights condemns the “horrific reality” of conditions and treatment under which many young people with learning disabilities and autism are detained in mental health hospitals, “inflicting terrible suffering on those detained and causing anguish to their distraught families”.
Evidence to the inquiry into the detention of young people with learning disabilities and/or autism was so “stark” and consistent that the Committee says it has “lost confidence that the system is doing what it says it is doing and the regulator's method of checking is not working. It has been left to the media, notably the BBC and Ian Birrell in the Mail on Sunday, to expose abuse. No-one thinks this is acceptable.” In relation to the Care Quality Commission, the Committee finds that “a regulator which gets it wrong is worse than no regulator at all”.
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Evidence to the inquiry into the detention of young people with learning disabilities and/or autism was so “stark” and consistent that the Committee says it has “lost confidence that the system is doing what it says it is doing and the regulator's method of checking is not working. It has been left to the media, notably the BBC and Ian Birrell in the Mail on Sunday, to expose abuse. No-one thinks this is acceptable.” In relation to the Care Quality Commission, the Committee finds that “a regulator which gets it wrong is worse than no regulator at all”.
See also:
- Detention of children and young people with learning disabilities and/or autism inquiry Joint Committee on Human Rights
- 'Horrific' treatment of my autistic daughter BBC News
- Children with learning disabilities endure ‘terrible suffering’ in mental health hospitals, report finds The Independent
- Father criticises NHS and social care of his autistic daughter Sky News
Universal approaches to improving children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing: short descriptions of interventions identified from the synthesis of systematic reviews
Universal approaches to improving children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing: short descriptions of interventions identified from the synthesis of systematic reviews This report, and associated documents, summarises the evidence for the effectiveness of universal approaches to improving children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing. The documents are intended for strategic and operational leads, working on children and young people’s mental health. Public Health England
Research and analysis: HIV: women in the UK
Research and analysis: HIV: women in the UK Report presenting data on the HIV epidemic among women in the UK and experiences of women living with HIV. Public Health England
Public back NHS plans for new rapid care measures
Public back NHS plans for new rapid care measures England’s top doctor has welcomed new polling showing that patients and the public support NHS proposals focussing on fast treatment for those who need it in A&E.
A national survey commissioned by Healthwatch England found that an overwhelming majority of people placed a high priority on early initial assessment on arrival at A&E for everyone, allowing staff to prioritise those patients with the greatest need, and ensuring that patients with critical conditions get the right standard of care quickly.
These priorities are mirrored in new standards now being trialled across the NHS, as part of a review led by NHS National Medical Director, Professor Stephen Powis, supported by leading staff and patient groups. NHS England
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A national survey commissioned by Healthwatch England found that an overwhelming majority of people placed a high priority on early initial assessment on arrival at A&E for everyone, allowing staff to prioritise those patients with the greatest need, and ensuring that patients with critical conditions get the right standard of care quickly.
These priorities are mirrored in new standards now being trialled across the NHS, as part of a review led by NHS National Medical Director, Professor Stephen Powis, supported by leading staff and patient groups. NHS England
See also:
- Unclear whether new targets are an improvement Nuffield Trust
- Seven in ten casualty patients waiting longer under new A&E standards The Daily Telegraph
Artificial intelligence: how to get it right - putting policy into practice for safe data-driven innovation in health and care
Artificial intelligence: how to get it right - putting policy into practice for safe data-driven innovation in health and care This report is intended to provide a cohesive overview of the current state of play of data-driven technologies within the health and care system. It aims to make clear where in the system AI technologies can be utilised and the policy work that is, and will need to be done, to ensure this utilisation is done in a safe, effective and ethically acceptable manner. NHSX
Get a move on: steps to increase activity levels in the UK
Get a move on: steps to increase activity levels in the UK This briefing examines the wide range of benefits of physical activity, the current low levels of physical activity in the UK and the significant inequalities that exist in levels of physical activity within the population. Policy recommendations across four core parts of people’s lives – travel, leisure, school and work – set out the steps government and policy-makers should take to increase physical activity levels across the UK. British Medical Association
Liver cancer deaths climb by around 50% in the last decade
Liver cancer deaths climb by around 50% in the last decade Liver cancer death rates have increased by around 50% in the last decade and have tripled since records began, according to the latest calculations by Cancer Research UK.
New mortality data shows that there were around 5,700 deaths from liver cancer in 2017 in the UK, which is the highest ever yearly number of deaths recorded. This has climbed from 3,200 deaths in 2007. Of all cancer types, liver cancer has had the largest increase in death rates over the last decade and the most rapid rise in deaths since UK records began.
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New mortality data shows that there were around 5,700 deaths from liver cancer in 2017 in the UK, which is the highest ever yearly number of deaths recorded. This has climbed from 3,200 deaths in 2007. Of all cancer types, liver cancer has had the largest increase in death rates over the last decade and the most rapid rise in deaths since UK records began.
See also:
- Liver cancer deaths have increased by around 50% in the last decade The Daily Mail
- Unhealthy lifestyles fuel a 50 per cent rise in UK deaths from liver cancer The Daily Telegraph
- Liver cancer deaths in England triple in 20 years The Independent
Antibiotic use falling but resistant infections rising
Antibiotic use falling but resistant infections rising There has been a 17% drop in the number of prescriptions for antibiotics written by GPs in England over the past five years, latest figures show.
But antibiotic-resistant infections are still rising - up 9% between 2017 and 2018, to nearly 61,000.
Public Health England is urging the public to take antibiotics only when necessary.
And it urges people to listen to their doctor or pharmacist's advice on when to use them. BBC News
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But antibiotic-resistant infections are still rising - up 9% between 2017 and 2018, to nearly 61,000.
Public Health England is urging the public to take antibiotics only when necessary.
And it urges people to listen to their doctor or pharmacist's advice on when to use them. BBC News
See also:
- 165 new antibiotic resistant infections every day in England Public Health England
- English surveillance programme for antimicrobial utilisation and resistance (ESPAUR) report Public Health England
- Surge in superbugs: Official figures reveal antibiotic resistant infections up 9% on the year before The Daily Mail
- Number of infections resistant to antibiotics rises by 9% in one year The Daily Telegraph
- Number of antibiotic-resistant infections has risen by almost 10 per cent, Public Health England warns The Independent
'Can I have a white doctor for the operation?': Racist abuse against NHS staff almost triples, ITV News finds
'Can I have a white doctor for the operation?': Racist abuse against NHS staff almost triples, ITV News finds We all know it's against the law to discriminate someone based on their race, age, gender, sexual orientation or religion or indeed to subject anyone to a hate crime.
We know that don't we? So why is it that discrimination and hates crimes still occur and why do people still tolerate it?
I ask because ITV News has done some research on racism in the NHS and the results are somewhat worrying.
We found the number of recorded racist attacks against NHS staff increased from 589 in 2013 to 1448 last year - that's an increase of 145%.
We know that don't we? So why is it that discrimination and hates crimes still occur and why do people still tolerate it?
I ask because ITV News has done some research on racism in the NHS and the results are somewhat worrying.
We found the number of recorded racist attacks against NHS staff increased from 589 in 2013 to 1448 last year - that's an increase of 145%.
NHS surgeons say fireworks should carry graphic warnings
NHS surgeons say fireworks should carry graphic warnings A&E doctors say plain packaging and cigarette-style warnings would reduce injuries
Fireworks should have to carry graphic, cigarette-style warnings and be sold in plain packaging to cut the number of injuries they cause, NHS surgeons have said.
They said urgent action was needed because of the toll of serious, disfiguring and sometimes life-changing injuries to hands and faces from fireworks. The Guardian
Fireworks should have to carry graphic, cigarette-style warnings and be sold in plain packaging to cut the number of injuries they cause, NHS surgeons have said.
They said urgent action was needed because of the toll of serious, disfiguring and sometimes life-changing injuries to hands and faces from fireworks. The Guardian
Number of women using pain relief for child birth falls to lowest in a decade
Number of women using pain relief for child birth falls to lowest in a decade The use of painkillers by women in childbirth has dropped by six per cent in the last decade, prompting concerns that women might be being denied the pain relief they want.
Data released today by NHS Digital showed the use of pain medication such as anaesthetics while having a child has dropped from 67% in 2008-09 to 61% in 2018-19. The Daily Telegraph
Data released today by NHS Digital showed the use of pain medication such as anaesthetics while having a child has dropped from 67% in 2008-09 to 61% in 2018-19. The Daily Telegraph
MMR jab: Scientists find measles can leave you vulnerable to other killer bugs in future
MMR jab: Scientists find measles can leave you vulnerable to other killer bugs in future Measles completely wipes the immune system of children and leaves them prone to catching other killer bugs, scientists say.
A study of 26 unvaccinated youngsters with measles discovered the life-threatening infection reset their body's internal defence system.
This meant the resistance youngsters had developed against other illnesses were completely forgotten. The Daily Mail
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A study of 26 unvaccinated youngsters with measles discovered the life-threatening infection reset their body's internal defence system.
This meant the resistance youngsters had developed against other illnesses were completely forgotten. The Daily Mail
See also:
- Measles virus infection diminishes preexisting antibodies that offer protection from other pathogens (open access) Science Immunology
- Game of clones: How measles remodels the B cell landscape (open access) Science Immunology
- Incomplete genetic reconstitution of B cell pools contributes to prolonged immunosuppression after measles (open access) Science Immunology
- Measles makes body 'forget' how to fight infection BBC News
- Measles infections can wipe out a child's immune system for up to five years The Daily Telegraph
Thursday, 31 October 2019
Cliftonville corridor improvement works to start in Northampton
Cliftonville corridor improvement works to start in Northampton Work on Northamptonshire County Council’s Cliftonville corridor improvement scheme will start on Monday to ease traffic near the hospital.
Northamptonshire County Council successfully secured £1.814m from the Department for Transport’s National Productivity Investment Fund for the scheme which aims to improve congestion on this busy route, which is an important north-south link, and one of the main access routes to and from Northampton General Hospital. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Northamptonshire County Council successfully secured £1.814m from the Department for Transport’s National Productivity Investment Fund for the scheme which aims to improve congestion on this busy route, which is an important north-south link, and one of the main access routes to and from Northampton General Hospital. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Gender equality and the 100-year life: how policymakers can ensure gender equality in the era of extreme longevity
Gender equality and the 100-year life: how policymakers can ensure gender equality in the era of extreme longevity This is the second report of the series focusing on how the 100-year life may affect Britain’s society, economy and public services. This report focuses on gender equality and how policy-makers can make the 100-year life work for women. Research conducted by Insuring Women’s Futures on risk patterns highlighted the six 'moments that matter' in the lives of British women – these are used as the basis for this research. Social Market Foundation
National Clinical Audit of Anxiety and Depression: inpatient mental health services
National Clinical Audit of Anxiety and Depression: inpatient mental health services This report presents the main findings of the National Clinical Audit of Anxiety and Depression in inpatient mental health services carried out by the Royal College of Psychiatrists between 2017 and 2018. Healthcare Quality Improvement Partnership
Introduction of nursing associates - year 2: evaluation report
Introduction of nursing associates - year 2: evaluation report This report draws on three online surveys of trainee nursing associates (TNAs), which received 2,477 responses in total and 12 deep-dive enquiries. Line managers were also surveyed in the second year of the programme, with 531 responses received. It also draws on the analysis of key programme data, information from the regular TNA communities of practice events, and economic analysis of the programme and role. Health Education England
A manager's guide to criteria-led discharge
A manager's guide to criteria-led discharge Criteria-led discharge (CLD) is a process that empowers a competent member of the multidisciplinary team (eg junior doctor, registered nurse, therapist) to discharge a patient when they meet pre-agreed clinical criteria for discharge. This removes the need for the patient to wait for the lead clinician (eg consultant) to approve discharge. This guide to CLD supports managers to implement, sustain and spread CLD, as well as providing context and evidence around the process. NHS England and NHS Improvement
NHS pagers are leaking medical data
NHS pagers are leaking medical data An amateur radio rig exposed to the internet and discovered by a security researcher was collecting real-time medical data and health information broadcast by hospitals and ambulances across U.K. towns and cities.
The rig, operated out of a house in North London, was picking up radio waves from over the air and translating them into readable text. The hobbyist’s computer display was filling up with messages about real-time medical emergencies from across the region. For some reason, the hobbyist had set up an internet-connected webcam pointed at the display. But because there was no password on the webcam, anyone who knew where to look could also see what was on the rig’s computer display. TechCrunch
The rig, operated out of a house in North London, was picking up radio waves from over the air and translating them into readable text. The hobbyist’s computer display was filling up with messages about real-time medical emergencies from across the region. For some reason, the hobbyist had set up an internet-connected webcam pointed at the display. But because there was no password on the webcam, anyone who knew where to look could also see what was on the rig’s computer display. TechCrunch
Spiders inspire double-sided sticky tape to heal wounds
Spiders inspire double-sided sticky tape to heal wounds A double-sided tape designed to stick body tissue together after surgery has been inspired by the way spiders exude "glue" to catch their prey in the rain.
Scientists at Massachusetts Institute of Technology noticed how the spiders' secretion absorbed water, helping to secure their next meal.
The sticky tape does the same and was found to work within seconds in tests on pig skin and lungs.
The team said with more research, it could be used in place of sutures. BBC News
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Scientists at Massachusetts Institute of Technology noticed how the spiders' secretion absorbed water, helping to secure their next meal.
The sticky tape does the same and was found to work within seconds in tests on pig skin and lungs.
The team said with more research, it could be used in place of sutures. BBC News
See also:
- Dry double-sided tape for adhesion of wet tissues and devices (abstract) Nature
- Scientists make double-sided tape that can seal wounds in FIVE SECONDS The Daily Mail
'I was treated like a leper' - Asian cancer patient
'I was treated like a leper' - Asian cancer patient Saj Dar was pregnant with her first child when she ran her hand over her right breast and felt a lump. She knew what that hardened tissue signified. And she knew she could not delay getting tested. But the fear of being treated "like a leper" by her local Pakistani community in the Berkshire town of Slough overpowered her. BBC News
'I didn't know if he'd recover': NHS staff on the patients they'll never forget
'I didn't know if he'd recover': NHS staff on the patients they'll never forget From physios working with stroke survivors to radiographers identifying 7/7 victims, it isn’t just doctors and nurses who form bonds with patients. The Guardian
Why the 2019 general election will be fought in the hospitals of England
Why the 2019 general election will be fought in the hospitals of England Legally speaking, the 12 December general election won't be confirmed until later this week, after it's been approved by the House of Lords and then signed off by the Queen. But today's session of Prime Minister's Questions - the longest in history, stretching beyond 70 minutes - confirmed that the campaign is well and truly under way already. iNews
Tories still to decide on approach to social care crisis that ruined Theresa May's election campaign, health secretary admits
Tories still to decide on approach to social care crisis that ruined Theresa May's election campaign, health secretary admits The Conservative general election manifesto may not contain firm proposals to solve the social care crisis, the health secretary has admitted.
Matt Hancock said his party was “working on a plan” – after the controversy derailed Theresa May’s campaign in 2017 – but added: “We are not ready to publish it yet.”
He would not commit to the Tories promising a cap on social care bills, telling BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “I’m not going to get into the details of it.” The Independent
Matt Hancock said his party was “working on a plan” – after the controversy derailed Theresa May’s campaign in 2017 – but added: “We are not ready to publish it yet.”
He would not commit to the Tories promising a cap on social care bills, telling BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “I’m not going to get into the details of it.” The Independent
Life expectancy in England and Wales has stalled worse than 20 other wealthy countries
Life expectancy in England and Wales has stalled worse than 20 other wealthy countries Improvements in life expectancy in England and Wales are among the worst of all wealthy countries, research shows.
Experts believe funding cuts to NHS and social care may be fuelling the trend, as well as a rise in alcohol and drug-related deaths.
Between 2011 and 2016, life expectancy in England and Wales improved by less than five weeks for women and fewer than five months for men.
It means that the average boy lives to the age of 79, while girls tend to live until they are roughly 83. The Daily Mail
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Experts believe funding cuts to NHS and social care may be fuelling the trend, as well as a rise in alcohol and drug-related deaths.
Between 2011 and 2016, life expectancy in England and Wales improved by less than five weeks for women and fewer than five months for men.
It means that the average boy lives to the age of 79, while girls tend to live until they are roughly 83. The Daily Mail
See also:
- Trends in life expectancy and age-specific mortality in England and Wales, 1970–2016, in comparison with a set of 22 high-income countries: an analysis of vital statistics data (open access) The Lancet Public Health
- Life expectancy progress in the UK is worse than that of similar nations The Daily Telegraph
Exercising more could reduce your chances of becoming frail in old age
Exercising more could reduce your chances of becoming frail in old age Exercising more, eating healthily and quitting smoking could reduce your chances of becoming frail in old age, a study has suggested.
Scientists led by a team at Leicester’s De Montfort University tracked almost 9,000 participants over the age of 50 for 12 years, on average.
Age was the biggest risk factor for frailty – but being overweight and smoking also increases the odds of becoming frail, results showed. The Daily Mail
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Scientists led by a team at Leicester’s De Montfort University tracked almost 9,000 participants over the age of 50 for 12 years, on average.
Age was the biggest risk factor for frailty – but being overweight and smoking also increases the odds of becoming frail, results showed. The Daily Mail
See also:
Wednesday, 30 October 2019
Northamptonshire: Crisis council replacement plans reach Parliament
Northamptonshire: Crisis council replacement plans reach Parliament The legal process to scrap a cash-crisis council and seven others in the same county has reached Parliament.
Legislation outlines plans for two unitary authorities in Northamptonshire to replace its troubled county council and the district and borough councils.
The government has already approved the scheme, but it will now be considered by the Commons and Lords.
If passed, North Northamptonshire and West Northamptonshire Councils are due to start operating on 1 April 2021. BBC Northampton
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Legislation outlines plans for two unitary authorities in Northamptonshire to replace its troubled county council and the district and borough councils.
The government has already approved the scheme, but it will now be considered by the Commons and Lords.
If passed, North Northamptonshire and West Northamptonshire Councils are due to start operating on 1 April 2021. BBC Northampton
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Tailor-made bras to be made for women at NGH after breast removal surgery
Tailor-made bras to be made for women at NGH after breast removal surgery Patients who undergo a mastectomy or breast removal surgery at Northampton General Hospital will now receive a free suitable post-operative bra to wear during their recovery, thanks to local charity Crazy Hats Breast Appeal.
It is hoped that the new bras will support patients through the next steps in their treatment and recovery and take away the daunting process of buying a bra post-surgery. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
It is hoped that the new bras will support patients through the next steps in their treatment and recovery and take away the daunting process of buying a bra post-surgery. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
A descriptive analysis of health care use by high cost, high need patients in England
A descriptive analysis of health care use by high cost, high need patients in England Despite the increasing financial pressure on the NHS over the past decades, there has been little research to understand the distribution and concentration of health care costs across the population.
This paper explores for the first time the distribution of both primary and secondary health care costs in England, including GP-prescribed drug cost. Identifying high-cost, high-need patients and examining the way in which they use health care services might help to design initiatives to reduce costs or to improve efficiency. The Health Foundation
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Prevention concordat for better mental health: consensus statement
Prevention concordat for better mental health: consensus statement Describes the consensus statement of the prevention concordat for better mental health and lists the signatories. Public Health England
Raising staff awareness of the NHS App
Raising staff awareness of the NHS App The NHS wants to encourage health and care staff to simplify their lives by using the NHS App. Download resources and suggested copy to use, so your organisation can be part of the campaign. NHS Digital
The expanding role of volunteers in the NHS
The expanding role of volunteers in the NHS Helen Gilburt, fellow in health policy at the King’s Fund, explores the increasing importance and role of volunteers within the healthcare service. National Health Executive
Peanut-allergy therapy 'protection not a cure'
Peanut-allergy therapy 'protection not a cure' Treating peanut allergy with regular exposure to small amounts of the food is effective - but only if a patient stays on the therapy, a study suggests.
King's College London scientists looked at the underlying behaviour of patients' cells - and found it did not change.
They say that shows immunotherapy offers "protection but not a cure" for peanut allergies. BBC News
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King's College London scientists looked at the underlying behaviour of patients' cells - and found it did not change.
They say that shows immunotherapy offers "protection but not a cure" for peanut allergies. BBC News
See also:
- Peanut oral immunotherapy induces blocking antibodies but does not change the functional characteristics of peanut-specific IgE (abstract) Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
- Peanut allergy treatment does not CURE patients but protects them from reactions, scientists say The Daily Mail
Asthma carbon footprint 'as big as eating meat'
Asthma carbon footprint 'as big as eating meat' Many people with asthma could cut their carbon footprint and help save the environment by switching to "greener" medications, UK researchers say.
Making the swap would have as big an "eco" impact as turning vegetarian or becoming an avid recycler, they say.
It's because some inhalers release greenhouse gases linked to global warming.
But the Cambridge University team told BMJ Open patients must check with a doctor before changing medication. BBC News
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Making the swap would have as big an "eco" impact as turning vegetarian or becoming an avid recycler, they say.
It's because some inhalers release greenhouse gases linked to global warming.
But the Cambridge University team told BMJ Open patients must check with a doctor before changing medication. BBC News
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Progress in reducing food sugar content ‘lost’ as people buying more, Public Health England warns
Progress in reducing food sugar content ‘lost’ as people buying more, Public Health England warns Progress in reducing food sugar content is being “lost” due to people consuming more sugary items, Public Health England‘s chief executive has warned.
Duncan Selbie faced questions from the Health and Social Care Committee about the progress of the government’s childhood obesity plan which was published in 2016.
Despite the plan setting a voluntary target for the food industry to reduce 20 per cent of sugar from key food categories by the end of 2020, Mr Selbie said the figure currently stood at a “disappointing” 2.9 per cent. The Independent
Duncan Selbie faced questions from the Health and Social Care Committee about the progress of the government’s childhood obesity plan which was published in 2016.
Despite the plan setting a voluntary target for the food industry to reduce 20 per cent of sugar from key food categories by the end of 2020, Mr Selbie said the figure currently stood at a “disappointing” 2.9 per cent. The Independent
I’m the dad who took on Boris Johnson over the NHS. I can’t stand by as he runs it down
I’m the dad who took on Boris Johnson over the NHS. I can’t stand by as he runs it down | Omar Salem I confronted him about funding at Whipps Cross hospital. His reassurances since are utterly unconvincing
A few days after my daughter was born, she nearly died. During this time, she had to wait for hours on a ward at Whipps Cross hospital in east London, just to see a doctor. The Guardian
A few days after my daughter was born, she nearly died. During this time, she had to wait for hours on a ward at Whipps Cross hospital in east London, just to see a doctor. The Guardian
US healthcare algorithm is accused of being racially bias against black people
US healthcare algorithm is accused of being racially bias against black people An algorithm used by hospitals in the US to identify patients with chronic diseases has a significant bias against black people, researchers have claimed.
The artificial intelligence, sold by health firm Optum, disproportionately advised medics to give more care to white people even when black patients were sicker.
It means just 18 per cent of black patients were suggested for a continued care programme, when 47 per cent of them were in desperate need of it.
The software helps medics decide the future of roughly 200million patients across the US each year. The Daily Mail
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The artificial intelligence, sold by health firm Optum, disproportionately advised medics to give more care to white people even when black patients were sicker.
It means just 18 per cent of black patients were suggested for a continued care programme, when 47 per cent of them were in desperate need of it.
The software helps medics decide the future of roughly 200million patients across the US each year. The Daily Mail
See also:
- Dissecting racial bias in an algorithm used to manage the health of populations (open access) Science
Tuesday, 29 October 2019
Why you’re better off being a cleaner than a care worker
Why you’re better off being a cleaner than a care worker Does the latest data on the social care workforce offer much optimism for the sector? In a word, no. The trends are largely a continuation of last year’s – a slowing almost to a standstill of the growth in jobs, an increasing vacancy rate and a high turnover rate. The King's Fund
69% of consultant surgeons cut their hours because of NHS pensions ‘tax trap’, as waiting times rise
69% of consultant surgeons cut their hours because of NHS pensions ‘tax trap’, as waiting times rise A YouGov survey of surgeons commissioned by the Royal College of Surgeons of England in October, and published today, reports:
- 68% of consultant surgeons are considering early retirement because of the pensions tax situation.
- 64% of consultant surgeons have been advised to work fewer hours in the NHS following recent changes in pension taxation rules to avoid ‘crippling and unpredictable’ tax bills.
- 69% of consultant surgeons have reduced the amount of time they have spent working in the NHS as a direct result of changes to pension taxation rules.
Improving healthcare quality in Europe: Characteristics, effectiveness and implementation of different strategies
Improving healthcare quality in Europe: Characteristics, effectiveness and implementation of different strategies Quality improvement initiatives take many forms, from the creation of standards for health professionals, health technologies and health facilities, to audit and feedback, and from fostering a patient safety culture to public reporting and paying for quality. For policy-makers who struggle to decide which initiatives to prioritise for investment, understanding the potential of different quality strategies in their unique settings is key.....This book is intended to help policy-makers to understand concepts of quality and to support them to evaluate single strategies and combinations of strategies. European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies
Brain illness spread by ticks has reached UK
Brain illness spread by ticks has reached UK An infectious disease that can harm the brain and is spread to people by tick bites has been identified in ticks in the UK for the first time.
Public Health England (PHE) says it has confirmed cases of tick-borne encephalitis virus in ticks from two parts of England - Thetford Forest and an area on the Hampshire-Dorset border.
PHE says the risk to people is still "very low".
It is monitoring the situation to check how common the infected ticks may be. BBC News
Public Health England (PHE) says it has confirmed cases of tick-borne encephalitis virus in ticks from two parts of England - Thetford Forest and an area on the Hampshire-Dorset border.
PHE says the risk to people is still "very low".
It is monitoring the situation to check how common the infected ticks may be. BBC News
Narcissists 'horrible people but happy'
Narcissists 'horrible people but happy' Narcissists might have "grandiose" delusions about their own importance and an absence of "shame" - but psychologists say they are also likely to be happier than most people.
An ongoing study of narcissism by researchers at Queen's University Belfast has found such people might infuriate others but are less likely to be stressed or depressed. BBC News
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An ongoing study of narcissism by researchers at Queen's University Belfast has found such people might infuriate others but are less likely to be stressed or depressed. BBC News
See also:
- The positive effect of narcissism on depressive symptoms through mental toughness: Narcissism may be a dark trait but it does help with seeing the world less grey European Psychiatry
- Narcissists are 'mentally tough', study claims The Daily Mail
- Narcissism is good for you because it gives you mental toughness, says study The Daily Telegraph
NHS bill for US drugs 'could soar under post-Brexit trade deal'
NHS bill for US drugs 'could soar under post-Brexit trade deal' The price the NHS pays for US medicines could soar under a trade deal with the United States after the UK leaves the European Union, according to an investigation.
Despite Boris Johnson’s assertion that the NHS is not on the table, sources with knowledge of the initial trade discussions between the two countries question whether the Prime Minister is able to keep to that promise. In fact “drug pricing” has been discussed in six initial meetings between trade officials from the two countries and secret meetings between US drugs firms and British civil servants where medicine “price caps” have been talked about, according to Dispatches. iNews
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Despite Boris Johnson’s assertion that the NHS is not on the table, sources with knowledge of the initial trade discussions between the two countries question whether the Prime Minister is able to keep to that promise. In fact “drug pricing” has been discussed in six initial meetings between trade officials from the two countries and secret meetings between US drugs firms and British civil servants where medicine “price caps” have been talked about, according to Dispatches. iNews
See also:
- Trump's plan for the NHS Channel 4 Dispatches
Lack of evidence showing medical cannabis helps mental health conditions, scientists say
Lack of evidence showing medical cannabis helps mental health conditions, scientists say There is inadequate evidence that cannabinoids relieve depression, anxiety disorders or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, scientists have said.
The meta-analysis also looked at the impact of medicinal cannabinoids on Tourette's syndrome, post-traumatic stress disorder and psychosis.
Research which combined 83 studies involving 3,000 people suggested their use for the six mental health conditions cannot be justified based on the current evidence. The Independent
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The meta-analysis also looked at the impact of medicinal cannabinoids on Tourette's syndrome, post-traumatic stress disorder and psychosis.
Research which combined 83 studies involving 3,000 people suggested their use for the six mental health conditions cannot be justified based on the current evidence. The Independent
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Doctors call on workplaces to ban sale of sugary drinks
Doctors call on workplaces to ban sale of sugary drinks Research at University of California shows a ban slashed staff’s intake by nearly half
Doctors have called on workplaces to ban sales of sugary drinks after research showed that removing them from cafes, canteens and vending machines helped reduce people’s waistlines and improve their health.
Researchers monitored more than 200 staff at the University of California in San Francisco and its associated hospital after a ban was introduced in 2015. Before the ban, the participating staff consumed on average more than a litre of sugary drinks daily, but 10 months later had slashed their intake by nearly half. The Guardian
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Doctors have called on workplaces to ban sales of sugary drinks after research showed that removing them from cafes, canteens and vending machines helped reduce people’s waistlines and improve their health.
Researchers monitored more than 200 staff at the University of California in San Francisco and its associated hospital after a ban was introduced in 2015. Before the ban, the participating staff consumed on average more than a litre of sugary drinks daily, but 10 months later had slashed their intake by nearly half. The Guardian
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NHS manager allowed to work from Marbella on rates of £2,000 a day
NHS manager allowed to work from Marbella on rates of £2,000 a day An NHS manager is being paid rates of almost £2,000 a day and allowed to work from his home in Marbella, an investigation has found.
The “astronomical” sums, revealed in Freedom of Information disclosures, are being paid by a health board which has a deficit of more than £40 million. The Daily Telegraph
The “astronomical” sums, revealed in Freedom of Information disclosures, are being paid by a health board which has a deficit of more than £40 million. The Daily Telegraph
Schizophrenia could be detected by testing human hair, scientists claim
Schizophrenia could be detected by testing human hair, scientists claim Schizophrenia could one day be detected by testing human hair for levels of a certain enzyme, scientists have claimed.
Tests show patients with the severe mental health disorder have much higher levels of MPST, compared to those without.
The Japanese team now say looking for levels of the enzyme in hair could help spot the condition before patients suffer hallucinations. The Daily Mail
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Tests show patients with the severe mental health disorder have much higher levels of MPST, compared to those without.
The Japanese team now say looking for levels of the enzyme in hair could help spot the condition before patients suffer hallucinations. The Daily Mail
See also:
- Excess hydrogen sulfide and polysulfides production underlies a schizophrenia pathophysiology (open access) EMBO Molecular Medicine
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